Project Title:

Thermoelectric Refrigeration System with Soft-vacuum Panel Insulation Technology

Micro Craft, Inc.
1100 Hercules, #120
Houston, TX 77058

93-1  12.04 9198    __      AMOUNT REQUESTED $65,276

Thermoelectric Refrigeration System with Soft-vacuum Panel Insulation Technology

Abstract:

The purpose of this SBIR is to demonstrate that a refrigeration
system using thermoelectric (TE) technology in conjunction with
high thermal resistance soft-vacuum panel construction for the
enclosure can meet temperature differential and heat rejection
requirements for large scale space applications within acceptable
power consumption levels. The SBIR directly addresses the need for
a micro-gravity refrigeration unit for the storage of biological
samples. The objectives of Phase I is to demonstrate through
analysis the feasibility of the proposed system performance.
The effort proposed for Phase I includes TE technology performance
analysis and finite element analysis for thermal and structural
performance of the enclosure.
The results of this SBIR will show that the thermoelectric
refrigeration unit meets or exceeds the existing refrigerator
requirements for space shuttle and space station use. Specific
benefits to NASA include: improved reliability, elimination of
freon working fluid and CFC foam insulation, weight savings,
increased usable volume, and reduction of post-flight maintenance.

The refrigeration system proposed SBIR has universal commercial
application including both home and industrial use. The system will
eliminate the need for vapor compression refrigerants and CFC foam
insulation. Both have been proven to be a detriment to the
environment.

Thermoelectric, Refrigeration, Insulation, Vacuum Panel